Brisbane’s answer to replacing champion five-eighth Darren Lockyer when that day finally arrives could be right under their noses.

Nineteen year-old Andrew McCullough may have felt awkward and embarrassed by such a suggestion on Tuesday but the signs are there already he’ll make the transition to fulltime first grader in the next 12 months to two years.

“I think he’s got a few more years left in him,” smiled McCullough when quizzed about Lockyer.

“I’m just trying to play hooker at the moment, I wouldn’t say I could fill Darren Lockyer’s shoes.”

Brisbane are currently in contract talks with Lockyer, who is expected to sign a two-year deal that will see him end his magnificent career as a one club player.

A former Australian Schoolboy No.6 from Brisbane State High, McCullough played hooker for Brisbane’s under 20 side which made the grand final last year.

He has impressed again this season, starting last week’s game against the Warriors in Auckland.

McCullough has a nice kicking game and a neat pass with a cool head for such a young player.

He played three games off the bench for the Broncos under Wayne Bennett last season.

“Those bonus games around Origin time last year were pretty handy for me coming into this season,” he said.

“I’m not going to get ahead of myself and think I should be there if I have to spend time in the lower grades.”

McCullough impressed Henjak in Auckland but Aaron Gorrell is likely to start against his former club when Brisbane lock horns with the Dragons on Friday night.

“It was a good opportunity for him to play against a fairly physical team and start a game and he didn’t miss a beat,” said Henjak.

McCullough, who passed his biggest test last weekend, will be a valuable player when the side thins out out during Origin.

“I enjoyed it, there’s some pretty big boys in that New Zealand pack and getting out there early rather than sitting on the bench was good,” he said.
McCullough’s dad Graeme was a hard tackling prop/second-rower for Brisbane Brothers during the Arthur Beetson days.

“He’ll probably tell you he was a handy footballer,” laughed McCullough.

“He was pretty good.

“He was originally from Millmerran but came to Brisbane and played for Brothers before going to Dalby.

“I always ask him for advice, he’s been there and he knows what it’s like.

© AAP 2012

Enjoy sports? Enjoy a bargain? All Sports Online has your favourite sporting brands at up to 70% off. Online only, premium quality sporting goods and merchandise at discounted prices. Get a deal now.